13-day adventure
The Great Traverse
Reunion Island
- Trekking & Hiking
- Trekking peaks
From $2,465
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our UK team
Our local team
Our Réunion Island office is based in the town of St Leu and is expertly managed by Jessica. We offer private, tailor-made adventures on the island as well as scheduled open group trips. Réunion is a paradise for outdoor sport enthusiasts and our team can arrange rafting, hiking, canyoning, diving and mountain biking excursions. We have 3 office staff taking care of logistics and a further 5 guides who all live on the island and speak fluent...
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Kandoo's view
The rugged Reunion Island, emerged from the Indian Ocean in a volcanic eruption around 3 million years ago. The island offers hikers sublime landscapes to enjoy and crossing Reunion Island is without a doubt one of the most beautiful treks in the world. Water has carved the volcanic rock into pitons, cirques and gorges, all set within steep ramparts. From St Denis to Piton de la Fournaise, crossing the cirques of Salazie, Mafate and Cilaos, witness day after day, the beauty of Réunion as you conquer the Great Traverse. 11 days of hiking a mythical trail in the tropics - a trip designed to challenge and inspire adventure lovers.
Trip highlights
- Watch the sunrise from the summit of Piton des Neiges
- Climb one of the most active volcanoes on Earth
- Experience the unique culture and cuisine of Réunion
Experiences
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Trekking & Hiking
Our core collection of treks and hikes, through some of the world's most outstanding landscapes -
Trekking peaks
Head to the top of a real mountain summit for a real sense of achievement
Gallery
Itinerary
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Day 1
WELCOME TO RÉUNION ISLAND!
Welcome to Réunion Island! Transfer to the hotel in St Denis and meet your group and guide. Depending on your arrival time you may have some time to explore the town a little. This evening you will have your pre-trek briefing.
- Accomodation: Hotel
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 2
LE BRULE TO PLAINE DES CHICOTS
This morning our minibus will meet us at the hotel and we transfer to Le Brule where our trek begins. Here on les Hauts de Saint Denis (the heights of St Denis) we are surrounded by lush green vegetation and the views are outstanding. We follow a narrow path through the rainforest, raising steadily to the Plaine des Chicots Gite at 1800m.
Note: Today we leave our main bags in the vehicle and start trekking carrying only what we need. We will be able to access our luggage again on day 4.- Hiking time: 2 - 3 hours
- Ascent: 660 m
- Descent: 35 m
- Accomodation: Gite
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 3
ROCHE ECRITE TO GRAND ILET
Today begins with a climb to the Roche Ecrite viewpoint, a rugged peak at 2277m which dominates the surrounding valleys. From here we will have a spectacular view of the Cirque de Mafate, the Cirque de Salazie and the Piton des Neiges. Next, we have a long and steep descent to the village of Grand Ilet. The steep path is equipped with handrails and the views are stunning.
- Hiking time: 6 - 7 hours
- Ascent: 580 m
- Descent: 1260 m
- Accomodation: Gite
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 4
GRAND ILET TO GRAND PLACE
We begin with a short transfer by bus to the Scout footpath. From here we enter the Cirque de Mafate. The Cirque de Mafate is entirely enclosed by mountains and vertical cliffs except for the exit of the Riviere des Galets (river of the pebbles). The valley has no roads and supplies for the few inhabitants often have to be transported in by helicopter. It was first inhabited by escaped slaves in the 19th century. We travel through thick vegetation rich with native, endemic flora and fauna and cross multiple rivers and bridges. We end our day at the village of Grand Place and settle into our gite for the night.
Note: Today we will meet the vehicle and have access to our luggage again temporarily. The next time we see our luggage will be on day 7.- Hiking time: 6 - 7 hours
- Ascent: 570 m
- Descent: 1460 m
- Accomodation: Gite
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 5
GRAND PLACE TO ROCHE PLATE
Today we set off early for a long day of trekking with a lot of ascent. We continue into the heart of the Cirque de Mafate, enjoying shelter from the high cliffs and superb views of the surrounding peaks. We pass several “Ilets”, small hamlets, which give us an insight into what it is like to live in these remote and roadless parts of Reunion. We end our day on Roche Plate, one of the many raised flat sections (plate means flat) of the valley where the Ilets are established.
- Hiking time: 7 - 8 hours
- Ascent: 1100 m
- Descent: 770 m
- Accomodation: Gite
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 6
TROIS ROCHE TO MARLA
Today we leave Roche Plate and head towards the Ilet of Marla. On the way we will explore Trois Roches (three rocks) where hard and polished lava rock covers the basalt riverbed of Riviere des Galets. The river cascades over a beautiful waterfall, in front of which sit three huge blocks of basalt. We explore volcanic features at the base of a 1000m high cliff which forms the edge of the cirque and follow the riverbed up to the delightful settlement of Marla at 1630m. This route involves crossing the river two or three more times.
- Hiking time: 6 - 7 hours
- Ascent: 860 m
- Descent: 330 m
- Accomodation: Gite
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 7
COL DU TAIBIT TO CILAOS
Today we hike up to the Col du Taïbit at 2083m, the passage which links the Cirque de Mafate to the Cirque de Cilaos. The views from up here do not disappoint, on a clear day you can expect spectacular views of the surrounding valleys, the south coast and Grand Bénare volcanic peak. The route continues down through the thick vegetation of the 'Bois des Couleurs' (the wood of colours) to Cilaos. From here, it is a 15 minute local bus ride to our hotel accommodation.
Note: Your luggage will be waiting for you at your accommodation.- Hiking time: 3 - 4 hours
- Ascent: 500 m
- Descent: 880 m
- Accomodation: Gite
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 8
CILAOS TO REFUGE DU PITON DES NEIGES
Today is a short day of walking, but a tough one. The shaded path up to our refuge is steep. Thankfully, there are many beautiful view
points along the way to stop and admire. The climb takes us up to 2500m of altitude where our accommodation awaits in a truly spectacular location perched above the Indian Ocean.
Note: Tonight, you will not have access to your luggage. Your bag will be waiting at your accommodation tomorrow.- Hiking time: 3 - 4 hours
- Ascent: 1100 m
- Descent: 50 m
- Accomodation: Gite
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 9
PITON DES NEIGES TO PLAINE DES CAFRES
This morning we leave the refuge early, before the sun comes up and climb up to the summit of Piton des Neiges at 3070m. Witnessing the sunrise from the summit of the highest peak in the Indian Ocean is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. As your surroundings are illuminated by the first glow of the morning sun, you will agree that this is a very special place indeed. We return to the refuge for breakfast and then continue down to the Mare à Boue (muddy pond). Continuing along the GR route we pass by the caves of Bras Chansons to reach the enchanting Piton Tortue and the lush, green meadows below. Finally, we reach the road at Bourg Murat and a short transfer takes us to our accommodation in Plaine des Cafres.
Note: Your bag will be waiting at your accommodation.- Hiking time: 8 - 9 hours
- Ascent: 730 m
- Descent: 1800 m
- Accomodation: Gite
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 10
PLAINE DES CAFRES TO GITE DU VOLCAN
Today we leave the pleasant pastures of the Plaine des Cafres and head to a totally different natural environment via the Plaine des Sables. This plateau was formed by a volcanic eruption roughly 1000 years ago and has an alien, desert-like feel to it. Journey into a volcanic world of red ochre tephra as we head to the Gîte du Volcan (Volcano Lodge).
- Hiking time: 4 - 5 hours
- Ascent: 350 m
- Descent: 250 m
- Accomodation: Gite
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 11
PITON DE LA FOURNAISE
Today we are in for a treat, exploring one of the most active volcanoes in the world, the Piton de la Fournaise. We climb the main crater (2632m) and discover a world of strange colours and surprising rock formations with fumaroles and sulphur revealing glimpses of the intense activity of this highly active volcano. Our last few steps to the summit mark the climax of this epic traverse. Gaze out over the island and the Indian Ocean and take a moment to contemplate what we have achieved! After taking some time at the top, we descend again to Volcano Lodge.
- Hiking time: 5 - 6 hours
- Ascent: 600 m
- Descent: 600 m
- Accomodation: Gite
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 12
GITE DU VOLCAN TO ST GILLES
On our last day we hike around the volcano and down to the coast through thick rainforest. Passing along the caldera with its numerous volcanic viewpoints and contrasting bright blue ocean before dropping suddenly into the jungle below. From rocky ridges to the dense flora and fauna of the tropical forest, this is a fantastic way to end our adventure, showcasing Réunion Island’s striking contrasts. When our long descent to the south coast is complete, we transfer to our hotel in Saint-Gilles.
- Hiking time: 8 - 9 hours
- Ascent: 200 m
- Descent: 1780 m
- Accomodation: Hotel
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 13
DEPARTURE
Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to the airport for your journey home.
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- See more
Please note
The
details in this programme are regularly updated but unforeseeable and
unpredictable circumstances may result in inaccuracies. In order to provide the
adventure which is best suited to your demands, the weather and the operational
conditions, changes to the itinerary may be made. For safety reasons, we
reserve the rights to interrupt your participation at any time if your
technical level or fitness is deemed unsuitable or if you are seen as a danger
to yourself or to those around you. Under no circumstances would this give rise
to a refund or compensation.
Details
Trip information
Difficulty
This adventure is classed as
difficult. It is 11 days of continuous
trekking with long and steep ascents and descents. The weather could be hot and humid which
makes the trekking more demanding and we will be reaching altitudes over
3000m. Crumbly volcanic terrain can be
difficult to walk on and care should be taken to avoid slips and trips.
You should be in good physical condition
with recent experience of hiking for several days in row with over 1000m of
ascent and descent.
To ask about your suitability for this
trip and what you can do to prepare please feel free to give us a call.
Food & drink
Continental
style breakfasts are served at your accommodation each morning. You can expect
tea, coffee, fruit juice, bread, butter, jam and maybe meats and cheeses.
Picnic
lunches will be provided each day. These will include fresh seasonal produce,
cheese, meat, salad and fruit. Please be aware that you will be expected
to carry your lunch and water with you each day.
For
dinner, hot home cooked meals of local cuisine are served at your
accommodation. Supplies in this remote area are delivered by helicopter so
evening meals may not vary greatly but you are sure to love the mix of French,
Indian, Chinese and African flavours that is Creole cuisine. The traditional
dish is a curry with tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger and spices served with
either chicken, duck or fish and accompanied by rice, grains (beans or lentils)
and rougail, a
spicy condiment flavoured with
tomato, lemon and pistachio.
Drinks,
including mineral water, can be purchased at your own expense. Options include
local rums, beer or fruit juice. The rum is made by soaking fruits, aromatic
herbs and spices in white rum and are served as an aperitif before dinner. A
beer called Dodo is brewed by the same local company.
Please
let us know about any dietary requirements when you book the trip and we will
work with you to cater for your needs.
Accommodation
During the traverse, we will be staying
in mountain refuges that in French speaking countries, are referred to as Gites. You will sleep in dormitory accommodation
with shared bathroom facilities.
Dormitories will normally sleep between 4 and 12 people and all your
bedding is provided with the exception of one night. Whilst at Refuge du Piton
des Nieges, you
will be provided with a mattress and blankets only, we recommend you bring a
sleeping bag liner for this night.
Luggage
Your luggage will need to be divided into
two bags, a daypack which is 30 - 40 litres and a larger 60 - 80 litre bag
for the bulk of your luggage (see equipment). Whilst trekking you should
carry everything you need in your daypack as your larger bag will be
transported by vehicle and, as detailed in your itinerary, you may not see this
bag for up to two nights. Your larger bag should be a flexible duffle bag or
backpack and not a rigid suitcase.
How do I get there?
You will need to fly to Reunion's Roland Garros Airport (RUN) which is located just outside the city of Saint Denis. As Reunion Island is a department of the French Republic, there are direct flights departing from Paris every day of the week. Airlines that offer a direct flight from Paris include Air France, Air Austral and Corsair. There are options departing in the morning and the evening and the flight time is roughly 11 hours.
Direct flights to Paris are available from most UK airports including Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Bristol, Edinburgh and all London airports. The flight time is usually less than 90 mins. Remember Paris has two main airports, Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY), check that your flight to Paris and your flight to Reunion are using the same one. There are direct flights to Reunion from both Paris airports.
If you would prefer to fly direct to the Indian Ocean from the UK, you can travel to Mauritius (MRU) and then take a short hop to Reunion from there. Air Mauritius offer direct flights from Heathrow and British Airways have direct flights from Gatwick. Flight time is just under 12 hours. From Port Luis in Mauritius, the flight to Reunion Island is only 45mins. Air France, Air Mauritius and Air Austral all provide flights between the two islands, so you are sure to find a departure time that works for you.
From the USA, if you prefer to have just one stop on the way, it is best to fly to Paris and then take a direct flight to Reunion. There are numerous direct flights to Paris from New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Houston, Washington and many more. Please remember that Paris has two main airports, CDG and ORY. If you need to transfer between the two airports you should allow time for this.
On arrival, after clearing immigration and collecting your luggage, please look out for a member of our team in the arrivals area. They will be holding a large "KANDOO" sign.
Direct flights to Paris are available from most UK airports including Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Bristol, Edinburgh and all London airports. The flight time is usually less than 90 mins. Remember Paris has two main airports, Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY), check that your flight to Paris and your flight to Reunion are using the same one. There are direct flights to Reunion from both Paris airports.
If you would prefer to fly direct to the Indian Ocean from the UK, you can travel to Mauritius (MRU) and then take a short hop to Reunion from there. Air Mauritius offer direct flights from Heathrow and British Airways have direct flights from Gatwick. Flight time is just under 12 hours. From Port Luis in Mauritius, the flight to Reunion Island is only 45mins. Air France, Air Mauritius and Air Austral all provide flights between the two islands, so you are sure to find a departure time that works for you.
From the USA, if you prefer to have just one stop on the way, it is best to fly to Paris and then take a direct flight to Reunion. There are numerous direct flights to Paris from New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Houston, Washington and many more. Please remember that Paris has two main airports, CDG and ORY. If you need to transfer between the two airports you should allow time for this.
On arrival, after clearing immigration and collecting your luggage, please look out for a member of our team in the arrivals area. They will be holding a large "KANDOO" sign.
Budget & change
The currency is the Euro (EUR).
You
can withdraw euros from in-country ATMs and credit cards are widely accepted.
Isolated areas like small villages or mountain refuges are generally cash
only.
Please
budget for drinks, tips and other personal expenses and please be aware that
hot showers are not always free.
Tips
Although the custom is practiced here, it
is not expected. If you are satisfied with the services of your guide and local
team, tipping is always appreciated. It
is not obligatory and should be left to the discretion of each individual.
Formalities & health
Medication
Your guide carries a first aid kit at all times but we recommend you carry the following items:
- Painkillers
- Sunscreen for lips and skin
- Moisturising cream (for sunburn)
- Elastic bandage, regular bandages and Blister bandages
- Sanitary products
Equipment & clothing
Clothing to bring
We prefer that you do not wear cotton
clothing, including underwear, when participating in activities. When cotton
gets wet from water or sweat it ceases to insulate and does not dry quickly.
The best materials for outdoor activities are fast drying materials like
polyester or materials which are warm when wet like wool. The most powerful
materials against the wind and rain are 'breathable' materials like Gore-Tex or
Nikwax.
- Warm
hat (beanie)
- Sun
hat with wide brim for protection
- Sunglasses
- Neck
gaiter or scarf
- Suitable
quick drying underwear
- Light
gloves
- Walking
boots (with ankle support and sturdy soles)
- Socks
(quick drying and not too warm)
- T-shirts
and warm jumper
- Fleece
or soft shell jacket
- Waterproof
and windproof hard shell jacket
- Waterproof and windproof hard shell trousers
- Walking
trousers and/or shorts
- Pajamas
and toiletries
- Comfortable
shoes for the evenings
Equipment to bring
- Water
bottle / thermos
- Head
torch with spare batteries
- Daypack
30L to 40L
- Duffel
bag 80L to 100L or similar flexible bag for your main luggage. Not a
suitcase.
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Sleeping
bag liner
- Walking
poles
- Wet
wipes
- Toilet
paper and lighter to burn it
- Plastic
bags for wet/dirty clothing
Dates & prices
| From | To | Price | Availability | Book | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25/04/2022 | 07/05/2022 | $2,465 £1,899 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
| 16/05/2022 | 28/05/2022 | $2,465 £1,899 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
| 13/06/2022 | 25/06/2022 | $2,465 £1,899 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
| 11/07/2022 | 23/07/2022 | $2,465 £1,899 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
| 01/08/2022 | 13/08/2022 | $2,465 £1,899 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
| 15/08/2022 | 27/08/2022 | $2,465 £1,899 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
| 12/09/2022 | 24/09/2022 | $2,465 £1,899 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
| 03/10/2022 | 15/10/2022 | $2,535 £1,949 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
| 07/11/2022 | 19/11/2022 | $2,535 £1,949 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
Want to add flights or create a private trip? Don't hesitate to contact us!
Contact usPrice includes
- Airport
transfers
- An expert Kandoo Adventures guide
- All transportation
- All accommodation
- Full board while trekking
Price does not include
- Flights and Visas
- Drinks,
tips and personal expenses
- Dinner
on day 1 and 12
- Travel
Insurance
Options
- Additional hotel nights before or after your trek
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